Real Madrid: 5 players most responsible for first place status after 7 LaLiga matches

LW Vinicius Junior

If Karim Benzema is the most in-form player on the planet right now, Vinicius Junior is not far behind him. Certainly, he has been the second-best player in LaLiga to Benzema, and he is tied with Real Sociedad’s sensational Mikel Oyarzabal for second in the league with goals. He currently has five.

Vinicius has been more confident and calm in front of goal. His erratic feet and overthinking proved costly in 2020-2021, but Vini has projected a commanding aura to start 2021-2022. The Brazilian left winger has often come up in the clutch for Real Madrid, proving the difference, for example, at the Mestalla with a goal and a delicious cross to win a tough match for Los Blancos.

After being Real Madrid’s most suspect finisher in 2020-2021, Vini is outperforming his xG by nearly two goals in 2021-2022. Now, that’s not as staggering as Benzema’s +4.9 xG overperformance, but it actually is even more impressive when you consider that Benz usually outperforms his xG whereas Vini was squandering chance after chance just months ago.

Vinicius has shown that this is no fluke. His improved performance in front of goal is down to a different mindset that will serve him well. He is growing into becoming a true star for Real Madrid, and he is already fulfilling his destiny by helping Real hit first place with his individual quality.

Beyond the goals, Vini offers so much in terms of energy and chance-creation. Defenders cannot cope with him running at them.